DOT Recommends No Change to Truck Size and Weight Pending Better Data

The Department of Transportation on June 5 recommended lawmakers refrain from making changes to truck size and weight regulations at this time citing profound data limitations.

In releasing a series of technical reports on truck size and weight for peer review and public comment, DOT said that data limitations are so profound that no changes in relevant laws should be considered until they are overcome.

Congress directed DOT to complete a comprehensive study of truck size and weight under the highway reauthorization known as MAP-21. Specifically, MAP-21 directed DOT to study the issues associated with trucks operating within and in excess of current size and weight limits and assess the impacts on safety, pavement and bridge deterioration, enforcement, and shifts to other modes of transport such as rail.

DOT plans to meet with an independent peer review team managed by the Transportation Research Board and seek public comment as it works to develop its final report to Congress.

Tiffany Wlazlowski Neuman

Tiffany Wlazlowski Neuman develops and executes communications strategies to advance NATSO’s public relations and advocacy goals. Tiffany also develops and oversees partnerships related to the NATSO Foundation’s public outreach initiatives. Tiffany lives in the D.C. metro area with her husband and their two sons.More